What is Community-Based Learning?

Across the nation, Community-Based Learning and Research is increasingly utilized as a teaching and learning strategy. This technique integrates meaningful service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.

This pedagogy provides AU students and faculty the opportunity to respond to significant needs of the DC metropolitan area. Students practice, re-examine, and deepen their classroom learning through direct service or a project with a nonprofit organization. Student and faculty work benefits the community as well as their own intellectual development.

CBLR as a High Impact Practice

CBLR programs are rooted in AU's strategic plan and goals:

"Our students will enhance their broad education … through community-based learning and research."

"Academic life will be enriched by … bonds with local, national, and international organizations … these programs, partnerships, and relationships will demonstrate our deep local roots."

"We will strengthen our culture of service and social responsibility. Life at the university will be marked by rich opportunities for service … and a vigorous commitment to the city and people of Washington, D.C."

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Schedule a Class Presentation

Have a CBLR staff member present to your class about service-learning opportunities for Fall 2023.

Meet with the Coordinator

Schedule a 30 minute meeting with the Community-Based Learning Coordinator to learn about service-learning at AU.

Community-Based Learning Courses

A Community-Based Learning (CB) course incorporates service-learning into the curriculum by providing students the opportunity to connect with an organization related to their course content through service hours or a service project fostered by faculty.

For FacultyFor Students

Community Service-Learning Program

The Community Service-Learning Program (CSLP) is an add-on credit option that allows students to earn an additional pass/fail credit when they volunteer at a local organization related to the subject matter of their course.

Learn More & Apply